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en-usCopyright 2015 AOL Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/wildstar-launches-the-protogames-initiative/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/wildstar-launches-the-protogames-initiative/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/wildstar-launches-the-protogames-initiative/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWildStar players have fought off the machinations of the Entity, the depravities of their enemy faction, and the vicious wildlife of Nexus. Yet they've never had to face the centerpiece of the newest patch, the Protostar Corporation. Admittedly, taking part in the all-new Protogames isn't quite the same as taking on an ancient evil, but the two new dungeons added with this patch are both meant to test player abilities, with a low-level run through Protogames Academy conveying gameplay concepts while the Ultimate Protogames provide an assortment of new challenges.

Not that there aren't plenty of other things for players to experience as well. The patch also contains new housing options, allowing you to edit the terrain of your home, and the character chop shop to let you re-edit facial details and the like. Players can also take on a brand-new Shiphand mission or run the Veteran difficulties of existing Shiphand missions, earning valuable Renown to take to the new Renown vendor. There's plenty to be done with the latest patch, so get in there and enjoy the games.
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Patch overview
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carbinecarbine-studiosdungeondungeonsendgamegalleriesgallerygame-mechanicsmajor-patchncsoftnewsnews-itemspatchpatchessandparksci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotstrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideoswildstarwsTue, 03 Feb 2015 09:00:00 -0500319|21138361http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-sneak-a-peek-of-factions-origin-of-malu-with/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-sneak-a-peek-of-factions-origin-of-malu-with/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-sneak-a-peek-of-factions-origin-of-malu-with/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Interested in seeing what the new multiplayer PvP battleground of Origins of Malu is like? Massively's MJ sure does, and she's managed to pick the lock to let you all in to see what's going on with her. OK, so she's not really sneaking in, but you can still get a peek! MJ is taking advantage of the opportunity to see how the game has developed since her last visit. And as a bonus, one of the devs will be joining her to talk shop. Want to know anything about the game? Join us live at 9:00 p.m. for a stroll through this closed test of the upcoming sandbox. Even if there are alpha glitches, you can get your questions answered!

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burning-dogburning-dog-medialivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvoomoriginsorigins-of-malusandboxsci-fantasysci-fistreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 02 Feb 2015 21:00:00 -0500319|21137342http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/factions-origins-of-maul-opening-early-access-in-a-couple-week/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/factions-origins-of-maul-opening-early-access-in-a-couple-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/factions-origins-of-maul-opening-early-access-in-a-couple-week/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
After Origins of Malu got the green light on Steam, developers went to work getting the sci-fantasy sandbox ready to release to players on that platform. All that work is about to come to fruition: Producer Michael Dunham told Massively that the early access release for the game's PvP build is only a couple of weeks away. FACTIONS: Origins of Malu is launching an invite-only closed release to ensure the systems are in check as far as user capacity, client integration, and the like today, February 1st, 2015; the EA will follow shortly after. Dunham anticipates early access to open before the 15th.

Early Access
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alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetaburning-dogburning-dog-mediaearly-accessfactionsFACTIONS-Origins-of-Malumichael-dunhamoomoriginsorigins-of-maluPvPsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisteamtestingSun, 01 Feb 2015 14:00:00 -0500319|21137547http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/wildstar-outlines-its-plans-for-the-future-of-pvp/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/wildstar-outlines-its-plans-for-the-future-of-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/wildstar-outlines-its-plans-for-the-future-of-pvp/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Do you want to smash faces on Nexus? Do you not give the smallest toss about being able to unravel ancient mysteries so long as you can find the opposite faction and crack their collective skulls? Then good news, cupcake: WildStar still has PvP on its docket. A new post outlines the game's plans for PvP in 2015, starting with new daily and weekly PvP quests in the next major patch to the game.

What else is coming in 2015? How about gear sets that can be purchased with gold, a removal of rating from higher-tier PvP sets, the end of season 1, and same-faction battlegrounds? Because those are all in the pipeline, along with bigger improvements for later in the year. If you just can't get enough of that factional warfare, check out the full post and get ready to carve up the other side.

Future Plans for PvP
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2015-planscarbinecarbine-studiosncsoftnewsnews-itemspatchpatchesplanspvppvp-mechanicspvp-patchroadmapsandparksci-fantasysci-fiupdateupdateswildstarwsSat, 31 Jan 2015 20:00:00 -0500319|21137295http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
There's a lot about The Secret World to like. So much so, in fact, that you just can't name it all in once place! I've had to split talking about the best parts of this conspiracy-laden masterpiece into a number of different Chaos Theorys, from my favorite first moments to amazing NPCs to fabulous places to favorite missions. Even Massively's Justin Olivetti chimed in with his favorite characters. But not even that can cover it all. That means today I'll tackle another topic: my favorite things. TSW has a plethora of little gems scattered throughout the game that enhance the play experience and attest to the level of detail put into development. And I'll totally go all Julie Andrews and sing their praises, hilltop or not. I only have so much room, however, so these are my top choices; be sure to add your own in the comments below!

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3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonfactionfaction-pvpfantasyfavorite-thingsfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatimy-favorite-thingsmythologyopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonThu, 29 Jan 2015 12:00:00 -0500319|21134268http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The Beatles once opined that happiness is a warm gun. Skyforge's Gunner class has a warm gun that also transforms into different modes and allows the class to call down orbital strikes, so one can only conclude that it is a very happy class indeed. Its opponents are somewhat less so. You can see the class in action in the video just past the break, or you can read through the reveal page to get a better idea of how this multi-mode class will play.

The cannon has three main modes as well as a variety of sub-firing options, allowing gunners to mow down targets at long range with missile barrages or take out hardened targets with bursts of plasma. Since it's meant to stay at range, the class also sports a variety of defensive tricks like teleporting back and forth. It's exactly the sort of class for you if you like having a big gun, even more so if you want that big gun to shoot all sorts of different stuff.

Meet the Gunner
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allods-teamclassclass-previewclassesf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmy.comnewsnews-itemsobsidianobsidian-entertainmentsci-fantasysci-fiskyforgetrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 22 Jan 2015 16:00:00 -0500319|21133599http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/wildstar-explores-the-design-of-veteran-shiphand-missions/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/wildstar-explores-the-design-of-veteran-shiphand-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/wildstar-explores-the-design-of-veteran-shiphand-missions/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Veteran Shiphand missions are coming to WildStar, and that's great, but their design also posed a lot of unique challenges to the design team. Those challenges are outlined in the game's most recent development diary, starting with a core set of assumptions that had to be true for these missions: They had to remain scalable, they had to still be soloable, and they had to offer appropriate rewards. This meant making challenging combat that could scale up or down for party sizes and didn't require tanks, healers, or pre-made groups.

To settle nicely into the gap between other solo content and Veteran Adventures, the Shiphand missions reward Renown even for solo play, as well as various appropriate bells and whistles for higher medal performance. Renown vendors will soon sell variety of gear as well as social items to ensure that playing through feels rewarding. Veteran difficulty will also offer remixed elements of the missions to give players a taste of something novel even if they've been through the base mission before. If you've been looking for more scaling content in the game, this one's for you.

Developing Veteran Shiphand Missions
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carbinecarbine-studioselder-gameendgamencsoftnewsnews-itemspatchpatch-previewpatchespreviewsandparkscalable-contentscalescalingscaling-contentsci-fantasysci-fishiphandshiphand-missionswildstarwsThu, 22 Jan 2015 12:30:00 -0500319|21133569http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/xsyon-kicks-off-season-of-in-game-events/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/xsyon-kicks-off-season-of-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/xsyon-kicks-off-season-of-in-game-events/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Why settle for one measly event when you can have a whole host of them? That's the approach that sandbox MMO Xsyon is taking with its event season.

The season, which begins today, will feature a slew of in-game events on different days. These include treasure hunts, timed battles, navigation competitions, capture the flag games, and a Valentine's Day event. The team is scheduling the events on different days and times "to accommodate players from every time zone."

Event season, Calendar
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early-accesseventevent-seasonfantasyin-game-eventnewsnews-itemsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplatformpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiservicesteamsteam-early-accesssteam-keyvalentines-dayvalentines-day-2014xsyonFri, 16 Jan 2015 16:00:00 -0500319|21130823http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/new-skyforge-dev-diary-is-all-about-combat/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/new-skyforge-dev-diary-is-all-about-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/new-skyforge-dev-diary-is-all-about-combat/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsSkyforge has just released a new video dev diary focusing on the title's combat, which the devs say is "90 percent of the game" in modern MMOs. Senior designer Dmitry Borodin walks you through a six-minute clip that traces the journey from traditional MMO combat to the "action-oriented combat of Skyforge today."

Further details on the title's combo system as well as Skyforge's healing mechanics are in the video past the break as well as the textual diary on the game's website.

I may be a lifetime member of The Secret World, but more than that, I am a lifetime fan! Why? It's not because I live and breathe the game; I don't need to play daily for hours on end to truly appreciate its qualities and what it brings to the MMOverse. But there are plenty of reasons that TSW has earned my loyalty, not the least of which is demonstrated in Joel Bylos' recent game director letter. Tucked in between talk of the 2014 content and the upcoming improved new player experience is this little gem: The team intends to open Tokyo up to all players! Beyond the story and the events, it is how the team constantly focuses on bringing customers a genuine experience that remains true to the spirit of the game. Is everything about The Secret World perfect? Not at all. There's plenty of room for improvement and added content. But I feel confident in the direction, and the following reasons are why I will continue to champion this gem.

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3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonfactionfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatijoel-bylosmythologyopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonThu, 15 Jan 2015 13:00:00 -0500319|21129191http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/wildstar-will-reduce-grind-focus-on-a-multitude-of-playstyles/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/wildstar-will-reduce-grind-focus-on-a-multitude-of-playstyles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/wildstar-will-reduce-grind-focus-on-a-multitude-of-playstyles/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Where does WildStargo from here? That's the question that director Mike Donatelli seeks to answer with his latest address to the community. Donatelli says this morning that while he's thankful for the praise the game received toward the end of 2014, there are several areas where the game needs to improve, and thus the team is working on making a better game experience for everyone moving forward. He lays out three chief foci for the team over the next year: listen to feedback to make the game more fun and "less grindy"; support "a multitude of playstyles," group sizes, and levels; and invest, expand, and improve the existing game.

Donatelli targets for these plans the first half of 2015, which will contain better-tuned endgame reward systems to fight fatigue along with a wider breadth of content for solo and small-group players. Over the rest of the year, the team plans to introduce a new Contract system to support different playstyles, continue tuning the rewards, and greatly expand the game's customization options. It's a lot of changes, but the Carbine team seems dedicated to making them work.

WildStar's Big Plans for 2015
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carbinecarbine-studioscontentendgameendgame-mechanicsgame-contentgame-designgame-mechanicsmechanicsmike-donatellincsoftnewsnews-itemspatchpatchessandparksci-fantasysci-fiupcoming-patchesupdateupdateswildstarwsThu, 15 Jan 2015 09:00:00 -0500319|21130117http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/funcom-announces-anima-well-wednesdays-for-tsw/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/funcom-announces-anima-well-wednesdays-for-tsw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/funcom-announces-anima-well-wednesdays-for-tsw/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsFuncom has announced a new Secret World event series called Anima Well Wednesday. What does it entail? It sounds like the content will vary. Community manager Gray "Tomium" Hogan says players can challenge Funcom reps in the fight club, "train 400 mobs to us," or kick back and ask questions of various unnamed guests.

To join, send a meet up request to Tomium or Sezmra every Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. EDT.

AWW
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buy-to-playfactionfantasyfuncomgray-hoganhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-eventsskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtomiumtswtsw-eventsMon, 12 Jan 2015 19:00:00 -0500319|21128484http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xsyon-enters-early-access-on-steam/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xsyon-enters-early-access-on-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/xsyon-enters-early-access-on-steam/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Want to play Xsyon but hate the mere concept of not being able to play it natively through Steam? Then we have good news! The game is now available on Steam as an early access title, so if you don't already own the game, you can start playing there. If you're wondering how the game could be considered early access when it's been launched and playable for some time, well... that's a good question. Sharp thinking!

If you're already an Xsyon player and want to have the game on your Steam account, you can shoot off an email to a special account requesting a Steam key for no extra cost. Everyone else who's already playing will just want to look forward to the hopeful influx of new players enjoying the game for the first time.

Xsyon Available Now On Steam!
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early-accessfantasynewsnews-itemsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplatformpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiservicesteamsteam-early-accesssteam-keyxsyonThu, 08 Jan 2015 09:00:00 -0500319|21126746http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstars-past-year-and-future/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstars-past-year-and-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/31/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstars-past-year-and-future/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsA year ago, I was excited for WildStar's future. Now I'm sitting here wondering how things went so very, very wrong.

That's not true, though; I know exactly how things went wrong. I don't like thinking about it, but I do know. And so here I am, with a game I was hugely excited to play out and in the wild, and so much has gone wrong. It's easy to think that I've pretty much clocked out altogether.

But that's also not true. I'll be the first to point out that I've said some decidedly unkind things about the state of the game and the choices that have been made thus far in terms of fixing them. The last column I wrote even posited that it might be too late for several of the changes being proposed to make any sort of impact when it comes to the game's image.

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2015carbinecarbine-studioscolumnfeaturedgame-mechanicshalf-featurencsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionretrospectivesandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphthe-year-aheadwildstaryear-in-reviewWed, 31 Dec 2014 11:00:00 -0500319|21122931http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-stream-team-christmas-and-conspiracies-in-the-secret-world/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-stream-team-christmas-and-conspiracies-in-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/the-stream-team-christmas-and-conspiracies-in-the-secret-world/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
You might think of Halloween as the holiday in The Secret World, but Christmas is pretty awesome, too! And this year's event is a Christmas Conspiracy that brings together all the familiar elements of the season in the way only TSW can -- with Krampuses and Mayans to boot. Massively's MJ has received gift tickets to a performance of The Magic Flute at the Albion Theatre, and she's inviting you along to watch the show and see where this conspiracy leads. Join us live at 9:00 p.m. for the special Christmas night performance. Warning: Spoilers are guaranteed!

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buy-to-playchristmaschristmas-2014factionfantasyfuncomholidayhorrorlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJmv-tvmvtvmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessThe-Christmas-Conspiracythe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtswtwitchtwitch-tvwinter-2014winter-holidaywinter-holidayswinter-holidays-2014Thu, 25 Dec 2014 21:00:00 -0500319|21118535http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/chaos-theory-a-guide-to-tsws-christmas-conspiracies-event/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/chaos-theory-a-guide-to-tsws-christmas-conspiracies-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/25/chaos-theory-a-guide-to-tsws-christmas-conspiracies-event/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsSilver bells, Krampus and Hel,
It's Christmas time in The Secret WorldRing a ling, hear them scream,
Soon you will see a Christmas play!

Ahh, it's the holidays. A time when other games pull out the stops on cute and cuddly, flinging festive colors and joviality about like Christmas confetti to make a joyous celebration. Then you have The Secret World. In TSW, the season is dark, twisted, and fiendish; nightmares are brought to life, and conspiracies worm their ways throughout even the most revered of traditions. And we wouldn't have it any other way!

I always wonder how on earth the devs are going to top themselves each new event, and this season's Christmas Conspiracies definitely does not disappoint! From the story to the puzzles, this mission chain fits right in. It even incorporated my favorite new element introduced this year -- music -- and literally makes you play for your reward. Want to experience it? You've got until January 5th to thwart the conspiracy and collect all the treasure you can. (Of course, even if you have done the two previous Christmas' events, you'll want to do them again just to get the special goodie bags!)

Here's a not-quite-a-guide to help nudge you through. As always, I won't offer a direct step-by-step walkthrough but instead will just drop hints (in italics) to help you along. That said, here's your warning: There will be spoilers ahead, so read at your own risk! If, however, you want even more spoilers, watch Massively TV tonight, December 25th, at 9:00 p.m. for a Stream Team walkthrough special.

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3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theorychristmaschristmas-2014Christmas-Conspiraciesconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonfactionfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomguidehintsholidayhorrorilluminatiin-game-eventin-game-eventsmythologyopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedspoilerssubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstips-and-trickstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonwinter-2014winter-holidaywinter-holidayswinter-holidays-2014Thu, 25 Dec 2014 12:00:00 -0500319|21119274http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/skyforge-demos-the-paladin-and-the-cryomancer-in-a-solo-dungeon/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/skyforge-demos-the-paladin-and-the-cryomancer-in-a-solo-dungeon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/skyforge-demos-the-paladin-and-the-cryomancer-in-a-solo-dungeon/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The latest video from Skyforge isn't a trailer. It's all gameplay footage, and it's all about showing off how two of the classes function in combat and what players can expect from the game's solo dungeons. Development director Eric Demilt and class designer Aidan Karabaich take two of the game's starting classes, the Paladin and the Cryomancer, through the Lanber Catacombs while narrating how the combat systems and ability mechanics work.

The Paladin, as you'd likely expect, is as tanky as you'd like and features a variety of sword swipes, holy bolts of damage, and drawing in enemies for large attacks. The Cryomancer, meanwhile, focuses on control, creating decoys, and blasting groups down after they're frozen in place. The video also shows off solo mechanics like environmental puzzles and solo bosses. If you've got a chunk of time to sit down and watch it (it's 14 minutes long), check the whole thing out just past the break.

YouTube
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aidan-karabaichallods-teamclassclass-mechanicsclassesdungeondungeonseric-demiltf2pfree-to-playmy.comnewsnews-itemsobsidianobsidian-entertainmentsci-fantasysci-fiskyforgesolo-dungeonsvideovideosFri, 19 Dec 2014 09:00:00 -0500319|21118873http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-secret-worlds-christmas-conspiracies-event-takes-the-stage/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-secret-worlds-christmas-conspiracies-event-takes-the-stage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-secret-worlds-christmas-conspiracies-event-takes-the-stage/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
What's Christmas without a clown and a chainsaw? Nothing -- if you're in The Secret World. The game that excels as conspiracies has turned one into a holiday event for players to unravel. It all starts with attending a show at London's Albion Theater and winds its way through gathering clues and solving Musical "Magic Flute" puzzles, even discovering Old Saint Nick's tomb.

And what's a Christmas without gifts? TSW offers new pets like an undead polar bear, funky hats, and more outfits and costume pieces -- including a carrot nose -- in the Rucksacks of Saturnalian Delights. The bags are rewards for finishing the holiday missions as well as available in the item shop. As during the Halloween event, players who purchase a special bag (this time the Bag of Wassail) in the shop to share with players will be rewarded with an all-new dance.

As in years past, previous holiday events are also live and running. However, the launchpad warns players that the End of Days event is currently experiencing issues and the team is working to resolve them.

Christmas Conspiracy announcement
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buy-to-playchristmaschristmas-2014factionfantasyfuncomholidayhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtswwinter-2014winter-holidaywinter-holidayswinter-holidays-2014Thu, 18 Dec 2014 13:00:00 -0500319|21118427http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/wildstar-eyes-chinese-release/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/wildstar-eyes-chinese-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/wildstar-eyes-chinese-release/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWildStar may have a new audience for its sci-fi western ways, as 2P.com reports that the game will be headed to China somewhere between late 2015 and early 2016.

A new market for WildStar may be just what the beleaguered title needs to shore up its financials. The Q3 2014 earnings report from NCsoft showed that the new MMO had dropped sales dramatically compared to the previous quarter.

2P.com
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carbinecarbine-studioschinachinese-releasegiant-interactivencsoftregional-releasesandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwszt-onlineThu, 18 Dec 2014 10:00:00 -0500319|21118320http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/skyforge-offers-two-contests-for-those-who-seek-beta-keys/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/skyforge-offers-two-contests-for-those-who-seek-beta-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/skyforge-offers-two-contests-for-those-who-seek-beta-keys/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Is the only thing you want for Christmas a nice shiny Skyforge beta key? If so... wow, you are aiming really low when it comes to gifts this year. We usually at least would ask for a game, not test access to a game. Besides, you could get one completely for free by taking part in one of two contests. The first is a straightforward raffle-style giveaway on Facebook: Just "like" the game's page and submit your account email, and 500 lucky entrants will get a beta key.

But for those who want a key and prefer not to leave it up to chance, there's a forum thread asking players to name the critter they see in the header above. The five best entries will receive a beta key, followed by a vote-off of all the suggested names. So there's a chance at getting in just based on your creativity at naming things, which might be more your style. The name contest will run until December 22nd, while the Facebook entries are accepted until January 15th.

Facebook key giveaway, Critter-naming contest
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allods-teambetabeta-keysbetasf2pfacebookfree-to-playmy.comnamenamesnewsnews-itemsobsidianobsidian-entertainmentpromotionpromotionssci-fantasysci-fiskyforgeThu, 18 Dec 2014 09:00:00 -0500319|21118239http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-give-you-a-craving-for-m/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-give-you-a-craving-for-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-give-you-a-craving-for-m/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
I made a dent in my Steam backlog this month, and one of the older titles that I finally got around to beating was Alan Wake. This has nothing to do with MMOs, really, except for the fact that the game's creepy atmospherics and its focus on the supernatural made me want to fire up The Secret World.

What about you, Massively readers? Do your single-player adventures ever give you a craving for a particular MMO?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

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buy-to-playdaily-grindfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologyopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlesstdgthe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldtswThu, 18 Dec 2014 08:00:00 -0500319|21117915http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/the-secret-worlds-killer-clown-is-coming-to-get-you/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/the-secret-worlds-killer-clown-is-coming-to-get-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/the-secret-worlds-killer-clown-is-coming-to-get-you/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Some Funcom fans are getting a nice present in their email today: a ticket to play The Secret World for free for a month.

"You will die. Because, hey, that's what happens when you play an MMO where killer clowns are after you. Fight back! Play The Secret World for FREE this Holiday season," reads the promo.

The freebie 30-day codes in the emails are apparently valid if used by January 15th and include experience potions as well as $5 worth of points to spend in the cash shop. It's currently unclear whether the promotion is for former subbers or just everyone who has a Funcom account.

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buy-to-playfactionfantasyfree-monthfuncomhorrormythologypromotionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtswWed, 17 Dec 2014 10:00:00 -0500319|21117536http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/wildstars-chad-moore-previews-the-games-next-big-update/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/wildstars-chad-moore-previews-the-games-next-big-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/wildstars-chad-moore-previews-the-games-next-big-update/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
The first major WildStar update of 2015 is available on the test servers now. Yes, there's a little time before it actually goes live for everyone. Creative Director Chad Moore took the opportunity today to explain to the community everything contained within the new update, starting with the addition of two new dungeons (the Protostar Academy and the Ultimate Protogames), a new Shiphand mission, and the addition of veteran-level Shiphand missions that can still be cleared solo or in a group as you'd like.

This update also includes new housing options, cosmetic options for characters (including the ability to edit your appearance post-character creation), and the addition of the new Glory currency for completing dungeons and raids, which can be exchanged for high-end equipment. Last but not least, it's the update that includes the long-discussed drop of the Datascape raid down to 20 players, making it less of a challenge to assemble a roster for this content. While it remains to be seen how well the update actually plays, it looks to be filled with a number of positive changes for the game.

In other WildStar news today, the studio is running holiday promotion during December. "Carbine wanted to wish everyone a Happy Holiday and spread some cheer by giving out 12 Days of Boom Boxes," wrote Community Manager Tony Rey yesterday. "Everyone that has logged into WildStar during the month of December (12/1-12/15) will receive these sweet little bundles of potential."
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Dev post
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carbinecarbine-studiosdungeondungeonsendgameendgamesgame-mechanicsncsoftnewsnews-itemspatchpatch-previewpatchesraidraidssandparksci-fantasysci-fiupdateupdateswildstarwsTue, 16 Dec 2014 14:00:00 -0500319|21116870http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-stream-team-tag-teaming-the-secret-world-tokyo-story-missio/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-stream-team-tag-teaming-the-secret-world-tokyo-story-missio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-stream-team-tag-teaming-the-secret-world-tokyo-story-missio/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#comments
Spoiler alert! Massively's MJ and Justin are diving deep into the Tokyo story missions in The Secret World. If you don't want any spoilers, you might want to look away or turn the sound down, but then you'd also miss all the hilarious moments that happen when these two team up together! Decisions, decisions. Justin is looking forward to showing of his new AEGIS build, and MJ is glad to have some extra muscle along. Join us live at 9:00 p.m. to see how the pair fares in the streets of Kaiden.

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buy-to-playfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamTokyotswtwitchtwitch-tvThu, 11 Dec 2014 21:00:00 -0500319|21114484http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/wildstar-begins-testing-drop-4-and-20-player-datascape-raid/?utm_medium=feed&utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_campaign=Massively&ncid=rss_semi
http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/wildstar-begins-testing-drop-4-and-20-player-datascape-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/wildstar-begins-testing-drop-4-and-20-player-datascape-raid/?utm_source=Feed_Classic&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Massively#commentsWildStar's upcoming Drop 4 is now on the public test realm, and despite Carbine'sreluctance to post patch notes, the news on the street is that this content update will be a doozy.